Japanese automaker Nissan has officially revealed the second-generation Kicks crossover for the South American market, and yes, its bold design might remind you of the Hyundai Palisade at first glance!
The new Kicks is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, which was first launched in Brazil back in 2016. This second-gen model began its global rollout in August last year, starting from North America, and is now making a comeback to Brazil, its original launch market.
Engineered for South America
Unlike the North American version that gets a 2.0L naturally aspirated engine producing 143 horsepower and 190 Nm torque with a CVT transmission, the Brazil-spec Kicks features a locally-produced 1.0L turbocharged 3-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. What makes it even more special is its flex-fuel capability, allowing it to run on both gasoline and ethanol. On gasoline, it delivers 120 hp and 200 Nm of torque, while on ethanol, it produces a slightly higher output of 125 hp and 220 Nm. This powertrain setup is quite similar to the Renault Kardian, thanks to the platform-sharing strategy within the Nissan-Renault Alliance.
Unique Features for the Region
Adding to its regional uniqueness, the South American Kicks replaces the traditional gear lever with a button-style gear selector, offering a more modern feel. It is available only in front-wheel drive (FWD) configuration, unlike the all-wheel-drive (AWD) option offered in the U.S.
This SUV is underpinned by the High-Spec (HS) platform, an upgraded version of the CMF-B platform. It’s larger than its predecessor, now measuring 4,365 mm in length, 1,800 mm in width, 1,625 mm in height, and featuring a 2,655 mm wheelbase. These dimensions make it a slightly bigger and more comfortable SUV compared to the first generation.
Bold, Premium Design
Design-wise, the new Kicks shows off a bold, mature look across all global variants. It gets a muscular body, wide horizontal grille slats, integrated LED daytime running lights, a signature ‘floating roof’ design, and eye-catching L-shaped tail lamps. Brazilian variants come with 17-inch or 19-inch alloy wheels, and offer a ground clearance of 200 mm, making it well-suited for occasional rough-road duties. The boot space has also improved, increasing from 432 litres in the previous generation to 470 litres in this new version.
Made in Brazil, Export-Ready
While the North American and Middle Eastern versions are manufactured in Mexico, the Brazil-spec model is being produced locally. Nissan also plans to export these locally-built models to other South American countries in the near future.
Four Trims, Loaded with Tech
In Brazil, the second-generation Kicks will be offered in four trims: Sense, Advance, Exclusive, and Platinum. Even the base trim is loaded with features such as LED lighting, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims add even more premium touches like a panoramic sunroof, a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, and an around-view camera system, delivering a more upscale driving experience.
Pricing and Availability
Pre-orders are already underway in Brazil, with prices ranging from R$164,990 to R$199,000 (approximately ₩41.4M to ₩50M). Interestingly, Nissan is still offering the first-generation Kicks under the “Play” badge at a more affordable price — between R$117,990 and R$148,090 (about ₩29.6M to ₩37.2M). This dual-generation strategy helps Nissan cater to both budget-conscious buyers and those looking for a modern, feature-loaded SUV.
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